Building European Values Through the Cultural Heritage of Cyprus

This course promotes European values through intercultural learning and the exploration of the cultural heritage of Cyprus. In today’s diverse societies, educators, young individuals and youth workers often face the challenge of encouraging mutual understanding, inclusion, and respect among people from different cultural backgrounds. The course supports Erasmus+ priorities by strengthening intercultural dialogue, active citizenship, cultural awareness, and the European principle of “unity in diversity.” Participants will discover the rich history, traditions, and cultural identity of Cyprus through experiential learning activities, cultural visits, local community experiences, and collaborative workshops. The programme introduces elements of Cypriot culture, including local traditions, landscapes, language, gastronomy, and social life, while encouraging reflection on shared European values and cultural diversity. By the end of the course, participants will deepen their intercultural competences, gain practical methods for promoting inclusion and cultural understanding in education, and strengthen their ability to create respectful, inclusive, and culturally aware learning environments for young individuals and wider communities.

Day 1. Cultural Heritage & European Identity (Larnaca)

Day 2. History of last divided city of Europe – Nicosia (Lefkosia)

Day 3. Traditional Crafts & Community Life (Lefkara)

Day 4. Sustainability, Cultural Heritage & Societal Well-Being (Ayia Napa)

Day 5. Reflection & Intercultural Dialogue (Larnaca)

Day 6. Cultural Traditions, Gastronomy & Course Closure (Larnaca)

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

1. Promote European values, cultural diversity, and intercultural dialogue through the exploration of the cultural heritage of Cyprus as a European nation.
2. Develop intercultural competences and foster inclusion, tolerance, mutual respect, and understanding within diverse educational environments.
3. Apply innovative and experiential teaching methods using cultural heritage to support active citizenship, democratic participation, cultural awareness, and societal well-being.
4. Strengthen awareness of shared European identity and the importance of cultural heritage in promoting social cohesion and “unity in diversity.”
5. Enhance European cooperation through the exchange of good practices, collaborative learning, and the development of international educational networks.